You probably know about the link between hormones and acne, but were you aware that your menstrual cycle has a lot to do with "good skin days" too? Here's how to deal with the way your period affects your skin every day of the month

If you've ever experienced time-of-the-month breakouts, you know all too well about the close relationship between hormones and skin. What you probably didn't realize, however, is that you have your cycle to thank when your skin looks good, too.

"Women are supposed to have a different appearance throughout the month," says Rebecca Booth, MD, a gynecologist and author of "The Venus Week." "Mother Nature designed us to look better when we are more fertile." Therefore, higher estrogen levels generally equate to better-looking skin.

Even if you haven't had a pimple in 10 years, your hormones are constantly affecting your skin -- and how they do it is directly related to your age. "Most women reach peak fertility -- and peak collagen production -- at about age 27," says Booth. "Then it starts a gradual decline that picks up speed around ages 35, 42, and finally menopause." Understanding the relationship between your estrogen levels and your skin can help you deal with both the changes over the course of the month and the changes throughout your life. By making the most of your collagen-producing days, you'll see long-term benefits.

Unfortunately, if you're on The Pill the same rules don't apply. "The birth control pill is often credited with curing acne," explains Booth. "And it works. But it also mutes the good days -- making them harder to detect." And even though fluctuations still exist, those in the know suggest sticking with a regular regimen throughout the month.

To make the most of how your hormones and skin jibe, follow these eight tips and have a vibrant complexion all month long.

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